Tony William DeDecker

Tony William DeDecker, aged 54, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2024. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Tony dedicated much of his life to the pursuit of knowledge and applying it for good.

Born in Appleton, Wisconsin in 1969, Tony had an early fascination with science and math. His elusive love of the sea came later and that passion led him to join the U.S. Navy, where he proudly served in the U.S. Navy's elite Nuclear Propulsion Program. He was trained as a nuclear technician, later becoming an instructor in that program.

After leaving active duty, Tony continued to share his talents in civilian life, working in the IT industry for startups and large tech companies, always carrying with him the courage and camaraderie instilled by his years of service.

Those who knew Tony will remember his dry wit, deep intelligence, and quiet acts of generosity. He was a loving husband, brother, uncle and friend, always ready with a listening ear or a helping hand. He loved camping and hiking through the US National Parks, crafting LEGO, his dogs and the sea which really took hold of him while deep sea commercial fishing in Alaska. In an ironic twist, he spent the entirety of his naval career on dry land.

Fittingly, Tony was honored with a burial at sea by the United States Navy in July 2025, his ashes committed to the deep (33°N 120°W) from the USS Alabama (SSBN-731) submarine. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Michael DeDecker, and his mother, Marsha Joan DeDecker (née Oatman), whose love and example instilled in him the values of integrity, hard work, and compassion.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sarah Shipley; his sister, Julianna (Cepollina), and her husband, Pierre Geis III of Hillsboro, Virginia; and their children, Pierre IV (Hanna), Nicole (Patrick), and Daniel (Kate). He is also survived by his brother, Todd DeDecker, and his wife, Sheila, and their children, Paige and Corduroy.

His memory will be held dearly by his family, friends, and all those he touched with quiet strength and kindness.

Fair winds and following seas, Petty Officer Second Class Tony DeDecker.